Dr. Clifford Bassett, PSYC ’80

In early June, the East Coast experienced hazy conditions and compromised air quality, presenting considerable health threats to the elderly, children, those keen on outdoor activities, and individuals with respiratory ailments. The accompanying "pollen-tsunami," thought to be spurred by climate change, only made matters worse; and made people from the DMV area up to New York City speculate if such challenges are becoming the post-pandemic new normal.

"We're observing an uptick in seasonal pollen allergies, believed to be primarily attributed to climate shifts over recent decades," Dr. Clifford Bassett, a University of Maryland Department of Psychology alumnus and the current medical director of Allergy & Asthma Care of New York, explains. "This suggests that escalating greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide, are likely exacerbating pollen production in allergenic plants, wreaking havoc on those prone to seasonal allergies.”

Still, Dr. Bassett sees an alternative route for the over 50 million Americans grappling with allergies. In his book, The New Allergy Solution, Dr. Bassett suggests that despite the worsening environment, allergic reactions can be managed.

"My mission is to demystify the challenges my patients face, offering clarity and promoting a conversation on comprehending and addressing their conditions," he says.

Dr. Bassett’s book serves as a manual for allergy sufferers, offering evidence-based, pragmatic solutions to alleviate unnecessary distress among the vast number of Americans affected by diverse allergies, including those from seasonal pollens. Dr. Bassett worked tirelessly to create the instructive guide, and to empower individuals to champion their health.

"I'm driven to find tailored, enduring solutions based on individual conditions," he says. “I have found through my collaboration with a colleague—savvy horticulturist Dr. Thomas Ogren, who developed the first standard in predicting the likelihood of flowers, grasses, trees and shrubs to cause pollen allergy—that there are ways for you, a gardener and/or landscaper to create cleaner, less allergenic air.”

Dr. Bassett’s patient-focused methods, recognized on platforms like “Dr. Oz” and other major news sources, are gaining momentum in the healthcare realm. He credits his education in the UMD College of Behavioral and Social Sciences and his degree in psychology for his success, and opines that the foundational knowledge he learned there is an essential tool for healthcare providers. 

He also stresses the importance of a well-rounded health strategy, emphasizing the profound connection between the brain, immune system, and bodily functions. For Dr. Bassett, it's vital to embed holistic health and resilience practices into our daily life.